Kitchen Assistant (Marketplace)

The hiring establishment is a reputable institution located in Los Angeles, California, operating within the hospitality sector. This organization specializes in providing exceptional campus dining services, catering to a diverse community of students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Known for its commitment to high-quality food service, safety, and inclusivity, the establishment emphasizes maintaining standards that contribute to a positive dining experience while fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all its customers. Operating on a part-time basis, the position is classified as casual or temporary, offering employment for a duration of 10 months with a potential extension beyond June 30, 2027. The role is non-exempt with work hours ranging between 20 to 32 hours per week. The expected hourly pay rate for this position is $18.42.

The role of Kitchen Assistant is crucial within the Campus Dining department, where the main responsibility is to assist in preparing and cooking multiple assigned menu items efficiently and adhering to the highest culinary standards. Reporting directly to the Director of Culinary Services, the Kitchen Assistant contributes significantly to the smooth operation of multiple kitchen stations and catering events. This job demands precision and speed, as well as a strong understanding of kitchen sanitation and safety requirements. The individual will be responsible not only for food preparation but also for maintaining the cleanliness of their work area during and after shifts, ensuring compliance with health regulations and workplace safety standards.

In this position, the Kitchen Assistant must be adept at handling large-scale cooking operations, working under volume conditions similar to a restaurant atmosphere. Extensive knowledge of recipes, ingredient handling, and special dietary needs—including allergies—is essential to effectively respond to customer inquiries and provide accurate ingredient information. The role requires the ability to work effectively within a diverse community, promote positive customer relations, and demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills. Strong organizational and logistical capabilities are also required to manage priorities and perform tasks efficiently in a dynamic and sometimes fast-paced environment.

Key responsibilities include not just cooking and food preparation but also contributing positively to the overall customer experience by ensuring quality service and collaboration across functions. The assistant works in a team-focused setting while being encouraged to self-motivate and work independently when necessary. This encourages the development of leadership and training skills within the role. The candidate must be diligent and detail-oriented, capable of anticipating potential challenges and handling multiple responsibilities with efficiency and accuracy. Upholding values of justice, equity, inclusion, and diversity is a fundamental aspect of the work culture in which this position is embedded.

Overall, this part-time Kitchen Assistant position offers a valuable opportunity for individuals passionate about culinary arts and hospitality to gain experience in a structured, high-volume catering environment. It is suitable for candidates with a culinary background or significant practical cooking experience, especially those committed to maintaining safety standards and responding thoughtfully to special dietary requirements. The position does not include benefits, making it an ideal opportunity for students or individuals seeking flexible work aligned with their academic or personal schedules. The role is designed to nurture professional growth while supporting operational excellence in campus dining services.